Valentine was a priest in Rome during the 3rd century, at a time when the Emperor Claudius II forbade the practice of Christianity and executed any who disobeyed him. But Valentine ignored the law, and he comforted persecuted martyrs and may even have married Christian couples. Arrested, he was brought before Claudius, who demanded Valentine renounce his faith and accept the pagan gods of Rome. Valentine refused to comply.

It is said that Claudius had him imprisoned by a magistrate, whose daughter happened to be blind. Valentine cured her, converting the magistrate and his entire family to Christianity. Enraged, Claudius had Valentine beaten, stoned, and beheaded.

Legend tells us that he sent the girl a farewell note, signing it "From Your Valentine." Today St. Valentine is honored as a true patron of love, not because of an ancient belief or festival, but because he made the ultimate sacrifice - he gave his life for the love of his God and his people.

Source: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Live - Inspirational Stories of the Saints